Family Sciaenidae

Drums

Selected Characters: Spinous and soft-rayed dorsal fins may be confluent or separate; lateral line extends to rear edge of caudal fin; deep canals present on head, associated with lateral line.

This is a large family of about 270 species which may occur in marine, brackish or freshwater areas, mostly at temperate and tropical latitudes. Most live in shallow water and some species are important food fishes. Sciaenids have modified muscular swim bladders which they use to produce a drumming or croaking sound (this family is also called the croakers). There are two species which may be found in Puget Sound. Both tend to swim in schools near the shore and are important sport fishes. The White Croaker is usually less than 40 cm and feeds mostly on invertebrates. The White Seabass grows to 150 cm long and eats fishes and squids. These fishes are rare in Puget Sound.

Puget Sound Species

Atractosion nobilis White Seabass

Genyonemus lineatus White Croaker